Phil Collins vs. Genesis: The Ultimate 80s Pop War

Totally 80s and 90s Recall

Apr 21, 2026•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 175

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Episode description

Phil Collins vs. Genesis: Who truly ruled the 80s?

This week on Totally 80s and 90s Recall, Rob and Dave tackle the ultimate pop-rock showdown: Phil Collins versus his own band, Genesis. In an era where Phil seemed to be everywhere at once, we break down the friendly—and highly lucrative—rivalry that defined the 80s and early 90s.

We’re weighing massive solo hits like "In the Air Tonight" and "Sussudio" against the experimental stadium anthems of Genesis like "Mama" and "Tonight, Tonight, Tonight." Join us as we curate the "essential" playlist and decide who truly wore the crown.

Chapters

00:00 - Pitting Phil Collins Against Genesis: The Ultimate 80s Pop War

02:39 - Phil Collins and Genesis: Dominating the 80s and 90s Airwaves

12:31 - How Phil Collins and Genesis Successfully Coexisted

15:22 - Setting the Rules for Our Phil Collins vs. Genesis Playlist

18:32 - The Songs that Just Missed our Top 5 Lists

31:25 - Genesis' Prog Rock Evolution: Driving the Last Spike & Dodo/Lurker

41:23 - Phil Collins' Solo Hits: Don't Lose My Number & Take Me Home

45:32 - Genesis' Pop Dominance: Tonight, Tonight, Tonight & Abacab

56:21 - Phil Collins' Chart Toppers: Against All Odds & Sussudio

1:01:50 - Iconic #1s: Genesis' 'Mama' vs. Phil's 'In The Air Tonight'

1:11:08 - Declaring a Winner: Phil Collins vs. Genesis Debate Conclusion